Inishmore Lighthouse, Lighthouse from National Inventory of Architectural Heritage in County Galway, Ireland
Inishmore Lighthouse is a limestone tower standing at the highest point of Inishmore Island with white walls marked by black stripes. The structure reaches about 122 meters above sea level and commands views across the waters surrounding the Aran Islands from this elevated position.
Built in 1818, it served as the first lighthouse on the Aran Islands to warn ships of rocks below. Operations there ceased in 1857 when new lighthouses were completed on Inisheer and Eeragh to handle navigation duties instead.
The lighthouse is part of the maritime heritage of the largest Aran Island, where ancient stone forts and religious sites also stand as witnesses to island life. Together, these structures tell the story of how isolated communities shaped their identity through connection to the sea.
Reach the location by taking regular ferry services from mainland ports at Doolin or Rossaveal to Inishmore Island year-round. From the landing point, you will hike to the tower sitting at the island's highest location.
The tower's high location actually worked against navigation safety, as ship captains spotted dangerous rocks below before seeing the light during storms. This unexpected flaw in the design ultimately contributed to why it was replaced.
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